Payment choice has become a competitive advantage. Recent research into checkout preferences confirms that customers expect convenience, trust, and rewards at every stage of their journey, and merchants who deliver that experience stand out.
That’s why payabl. has collaborated with American Express (Amex) to make it easier for UK and European merchants to accept Amex® Cards both online and in-store. payabl. is empowering merchants to meet customer expectations, tap into a premium audience, and drive sustainable growth.
Opening doors to a high-spending customer base
American Express is recognised globally for its focus on service, security, and rewards. Data indicates that 56% of UK American Express Cardmembers report they agree they will purchase more at a retail merchant when they know that they can use American Express1.
By enabling acceptance through payabl., merchants gain access to this valuable customer segment — one that actively seeks out businesses that take their preferred payment method. Indeed, a further 64% of UK American Express Cardmembers report they agree they are more likely to regularly visit retail stores when they know they can pay with American Express2.
From boutique hotels and travel operators to premium retailers and hospitality brands, merchants can now engage with an audience that prioritises experience and reward.
“Consumers want more choice than ever before in how they pay,” says Kristaps Zips, UK CEO of payabl. “Our collaboration with American Express helps merchants provide that choice while connecting with Amex’s high-value Cardmembers and delivering the exceptional experiences those Cardmembers expect.”
Why acceptance matters
As mentioned, recent payabl. research found that nearly half of European consumers are motivated by discounts and cashback incentives when choosing how to pay, while one in three are driven by loyalty rewards.
For merchants, this means offering Amex acceptance isn’t just about adding another card logo to the checkout. It’s about aligning with what modern consumers value most: recognition, trust, and reward.
The power of partnership
For payabl., this collaboration is part of a broader mission: to make global money movement simple, secure, and seamless for every business. The partnership with American Express builds on payabl.’s existing integrations with leading card schemes and alternative payment methods, ensuring merchants can serve customers wherever and however they want to pay.
Merchants integrated with payabl. can accept American Express and other payment methods quickly and easily, without complex onboarding or additional infrastructure. The process is designed for efficiency and scalability, allowing businesses to start serving Amex® Cardmembers immediately.
Expanding opportunity across sectors
While the benefits of Amex acceptance span industries, they’re particularly significant for high-value sectors such as travel, tourism, and luxury retail. These are industries where customer experience, loyalty, and trust directly impact business success.
By adding Amex to their payment stack, merchants can position themselves as trusted destinations for premium Cardmembers, building long-term relationships with a loyal audience.
Future-ready payments with payabl. and American Express
The partnership underscores a shared vision: helping businesses of all sizes harness the power of payments to grow. As consumer expectations evolve and digital commerce expands, payabl. and American Express remain focused on giving merchants the tools, flexibility, and support they need to thrive and activate their money flow.
1 American Express commissioned internet panel survey conducted in March 2024 – April 2024 based on food and beverage purchases made in the 3 months prior to the survey. Definition of American Express Cardmembers: Respondents who reported that they have an American Express® Card and that they used that card to make food and beverage purchases in the prior 3 months.
2 American Express commissioned internet panel survey conducted in March 2024 – April 2024 based on food and beverage purchases made in the 3 months prior to the survey. Definition of American Express Cardmembers: Respondents who reported that they have an American Express® Card and that they used that card to make food and beverage purchases in the prior 3 months.